Elazığ Archaeology and Ethnography Museum

The museum's origins date back to 1965, to the Alacalı Mescit in Harput. At that time, it was called the Harput Museum. During surface surveys and excavations carried out as part of the Keban and Karakaya dam projects, numerous artifacts from pre-Christian eras were found, and the existing building became insufficient to accommodate this accumulation. Consequently, in 1971, construction of a new museum building began on a 12,700 square meter area within the Fırat University Faculty of Engineering campus. After the completion of the storage and administrative buildings, the museum was opened to visitors on July 28, 1982, under its current name, Elazığ Archaeology and Ethnography Museum.

The museum is located in Üniversite Mahallesi, within the Fırat University campus. It is 3-4 km away from Elazığ city center. City minibuses and bus lines go up to the campus entrance, from where the museum building is a short walk away. Those going by their own car can use the campus parking lot.

1 to 1.5 hours is sufficient to explore the museum's three halls: the archaeological artifacts-coin hall, the carpet-kilim gallery, and the ethnography hall. Thanks to the chronologically arranged exhibition, transitions between halls are fluid. Those who wish to explore without rushing can spend a little longer.

Some of the artifacts found during excavations around Harput Castle are exhibited in this museum. The castle is 7 km from the city center and is a free-to-visit stop. Visiting the museum first, then the castle (or vice versa) on the same day makes a logical itinerary for those who want to see the early history of Elazığ comprehensively.

The museum had a period in the past when it was closed for a long time due to renovation. Before going, confirm whether it is open and its current visiting hours through the official channels of the Elazığ Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism. Since it is within the campus, entry rules may differ on weekends or holidays.

The museum's inventory includes 10,887 registered coins, 493 of which are displayed in the exhibition hall. The carpet and kilim gallery stands out with pieces reflecting the region's traditional weaving culture. The ethnography hall features everyday objects, clothing examples, and handicraft products.

After visiting the museum, you can return to the city center and plan a day trip to Lake Hazar (in Sivrice district, 35 km from the center). You can also add the historical texture of Harput, the castle, and the surrounding old structures to your itinerary on the same day.